Climatic factors which are critical for aging (e.g. ambient temperature, wind speed, relative humidity, UV radiation) are quantified in several outdoor weathering facilities and their effects on PV modules are monitored and investigated.

UV test chamber with PV module

Our UV test chamber is equipped with different light sources and spectra. In addition, the ambient/module temperature can be controlled during testing. Typical failure mechanisms, like yellowing or different types of snail tracks, are triggered by ultraviolet radiation.

TestLab PV Modules

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In the field of work “Service Life and Failure Analysis”, we examine the quality and the aging behavior of PV modules as well as their materials and individual components. Throughout our work, we can refer to a large wealth of experience gained in the analysis and evaluation of numerous cases of failures in field operation. In addition, we monitor and examine the aging behavior of PV modules at realistic real time conditions as well as accelerated aging tests. At several outdoor test facilities worldwide, we expose photovoltaic module to determine the correlation between operating data and weathering and to adjust conditions of artificial weathering; we develop procedures to simulate aging mechanisms - like for example so-called “snail trails” - in accelerated aging tests to examine the modules’ sensitivity to specific effects.

In the accredited TestLab PV Modules we perform type-approval tests for photovoltaic modules according to IEC standards as well as customized tests. The synergies which are created through the cooperation of the TestLab PV Modules lead to fast processes of highest quality based on the accreditation according to ISO 17025.

Our many years of experience with module failures in outdoor weathering and accelerated aging tests provide us with a deep understanding of mechanisms and defective material combinations. For tests and analyses, we have the most modern and innovative equipment at our disposal, which we partially developed ourselves for the special application to PV modules.